Pyometra is the medical term used to describe an infected uterus. This infection can be open (draining pus from the vagina) or closed (pus is contained in the uterus by a closed cervix). In the past, pyometra was considered to be simply a uterine infection. Today it is now known as a hormonal abnormality and a secondary bacterial infection may or may not be present. This disease mainly affects the middle aged female dog that has not been spayed. Pyometra follows a heat cycle in which fertilization did not occur. Many times within two to four months after the cycle, the female starts showing signs of the disease. In the simplest terms, it is an infection in the uterus.
The two main hormones produced by the ovaries are estrogen and progesterone. An excessive quantity of progesterone, or the uterus becoming oversensitive to it, causes pyometra. In either case, cysts form in the lining of the uterus. These cysts contain numerous secretory cells, and large quantities of fluids are produced and released into the interior of the uterus. This fluid, along with a thickening of the walls of the uterus, brings about a dramatic increase in the overall size of this organ.
How do bacteria get into the uterus? The cervix is the gateway to the uterus. It remains tightly closed except during estrus. When it is open, bacteria that are normally found in the vagina can enter the uterus rather easily. If the uterus is normal, the environment is adverse to bacterial survival. When the uterine wall is thickened and cystic, perfect conditions exist for bacterial growth. When these abnormal conditions exist, the muscles of the uterus cannot contract properly. This means that bacteria that enter the uterus cannot be expelled.
What are some of the signs of a dog that has pyometra? The clinical signs depend on whether or not the cervix is open. If it is open, pus will drain from the uterus through the vagina to the outside. It is often noted on the skin or hair under the tail or on bedding and furniture where the dog has laid. Fever, lethargy, anorexia, and depression may or may not be present.
As the body attempts to flush out the build-up of waste products through the kidneys, the animal will drink excessive quantities of water (polydipsia) and urinate large amounts frequently (polyuria). She will lick at her vaginal area while the cervix is still open and the uterus is discharging a white fluid. She may run a low-grade fever and if blood work is done, she will show an elevated white blood cell count. As the uterus increases in size and weight, the dog shows weakness in the rear legs, often to the point where she cannot rise without help. As the dog enters kidney failure, she stops eating and becomes very lethargic.
If the cervix is closed, pus that forms is not able to drain to the outside. It collects in the uterus causing distention of the abdomen. The bacteria release toxins which are absorbed into circulation. These dogs often become severely ill very rapidly. They are anorectic, very listless, and very depressed. Vomiting or diarrhea may be present.
Toxins from the bacteria affect the kidneys ability to retain fluid. Increased urine production occurs, and the dog drinks an excess of water. This occurs in both open- and closed-cervix pyometra.
Dogs that are seen early in the disease may have a slight vaginal discharge and show no other signs of illness. Most dogs with pyometra are not seen until later in the illness. A very ill female dog that is drinking an increased amount of water and has not been spayed is always suspected of having pyometra. This is especially true if there is a vaginal discharge or an enlarged abdomen.
Since toxicity may develop very quickly in dogs with pyometra, it needs to be treated promptly. Dogs will receive intravenous fluids, usually for several days, and antibiotics. In most cases, the preferred treatment is a complete ovariohysterectomy (spay). This removes the ovaries, oviducts, uterus, and all associated blood vessels. These animals can be a surgical challenge because of their poor overall condition. In some females valued for breeding, prostaglandin and antibiotic therapy may be tried instead of surgery. The prostaglandin is given for 5-7 days and causes the uterus to contract and expel the fluid. In mild cases, when the cervix is still open and the fluid is draining, the success rate is excellent. This therapy should only be used in dogs 6 years of age or younger, who are in stable condition, and have an open cervix. Prostaglandins can have side effects, especially after the first dose, including restlessness, panting, vomiting, increased heart rate, fever, and defecation.
The infection is not only life threatening on its own, but it can also cause kidney failure through bacterial toxins. If treated quickly with surgery and antibiotics, approximately 90 percent of dogs affected with pyometra will survive.
If an owner decides not to have surgery on their pet, the other option is medical management. This method of treatment involves the injection of hormones, called prostaglandins, to change the environment in the uterus. Antibiotics are also given. Medical treatment of pyometra is not recommended.
It takes two days for the hormone injections to take effect, during which the pet could die of infection or kidney failure. There is also a high incidence of recurrence of pyometra with medical management. Furthermore, not all pets respond to this therapy and require life-saving surgery after this therapy has failed.
So obviously the best treatment for this disease is to have your dog spayed.
My rating: Spaying bitches not used for breeding: (4)
Showing posts with label canine diseases. Show all posts
Showing posts with label canine diseases. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
CANINE INFLUENZA
The dog flu virus (Influenza A subtype H3N8) was first discovered back in 2004 down in Florida with the racing Grey Hound dogs. This virus is highly contagious between dogs but so far there is no evidence that it can be transmitted from dogs to humans or other species. So far the dog flu virus has only been documented in 30 states, but it is likely present throughout the US and is considered endemic in Florida, New York, Pennsylvania and Colorado. NOTE: I do remember recently reading somewhere that a human passed the flu virus to his animal (dog, cat)???
A shocking statistic - almost 100% of dogs will be infected after exposure to this virus. Within 2 to 4 days of exposure, 80% of dogs will develop signs of illness and the other 20% will remain asymptomatic, although they are still capable of spreading the virus. In all cases, dogs are most contagious before they start showing signs. This virus is similar to the human flu viruses. It is spread by respiratory secretions and contaminates food and water bowls, collars, leashes and bedding. From my research, the virus can stay alive on most surfaces for 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours and hands for 12 hours but is easily killed by common disinfectants (bleach, ammonium compounds).
How can you tell if your dog has the canine influenza? This virus causes acute respiratory infection in dogs. Most dogs will develop a mild respiratory infection which is characterized by a moist or dry cough that usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks despite treatment. They will have a cloudy or green nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. For more severe infections you might see pneumonia and a high fever. The death rate has been reported in 1 to 5% of dogs who are severely affected. Another thing that is important to remember is that unlike other flu viruses, canine influenza is not seasonal and occurs year round. Wow…..that blew me away! Year round?! Many times dogs with canine influenza are often misdiagnosed with kennel cough as the signs are usually identical. For this reason, canine influenza cannot be diagnosed only on clinical signs. That is why it is imperative to have a blood test done which identifies antibodies to the virus as early as 7 days after symptoms start. In order to confirm the infection, another blood sample should be taken about 2 weeks later. There are other tests that your veterinarian may recommend as well.
Secondary bacterial infections are common and many dogs require broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. As with all viral infections, the treatment for canine influenza is to use good preventative measures. Excellent hygiene and natural nutrition can help dogs mount an immune response and recover within 2 to 3 weeks.
If your dog starts to show signs of the canine flu, keep your dog at home, away from other dogs and dog owners. Your dog should not be brought to parks or handling and obedience classes where other dogs are present. He should not be boarded or groomed. And common sense will tell you, that he should not be brought to a dog show. In fact, they should be isolated from other dogs for 2 weeks to prevent spread of disease.
You should also take preventative measures if you have other dogs. Wash your hands frequently and change your clothes before handling or being around your other dogs to reduce the risk of spread. Always disinfect the surfaces of your home and car or van that your dog has come in contact with before you let your other dogs in these areas.
There is no cure for the flu but if you suspect your dog has come in contact with a sick dog, take him to the vet to have him tested for the flu and where he can offer treatment.
In May 2009, the USDA approved the first canine influenza vaccine. Like the human flu shot, the vaccine may not completely prevent infection but vaccinated dogs will develop less severe illness and are less likely to spread the virus to other dogs. My research says that the vaccine is not recommended for every dog—only those dogs with an "at-risk" lifestyle. This includes dogs that are boarded or kenneled frequently, go to the groomer routinely, are housed with other dogs, or have frequent dog contact (Dog Park, doggy daycare, dog shows, dog handling classes, etc). The best thing to do is ask your veterinarian if the canine flu vaccine is right for your dog.
I personally have never seen so many new illnesses as I have in recent years both in our canine friends and humans as well. Just look back at when you were growing up. Pets were lucky if they ever went to the vet in their lifetime and many lived over 16 years of age. It must be something in the water…..or food!?
My rating: dog flu shot where necessary: (4)
A shocking statistic - almost 100% of dogs will be infected after exposure to this virus. Within 2 to 4 days of exposure, 80% of dogs will develop signs of illness and the other 20% will remain asymptomatic, although they are still capable of spreading the virus. In all cases, dogs are most contagious before they start showing signs. This virus is similar to the human flu viruses. It is spread by respiratory secretions and contaminates food and water bowls, collars, leashes and bedding. From my research, the virus can stay alive on most surfaces for 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours and hands for 12 hours but is easily killed by common disinfectants (bleach, ammonium compounds).
How can you tell if your dog has the canine influenza? This virus causes acute respiratory infection in dogs. Most dogs will develop a mild respiratory infection which is characterized by a moist or dry cough that usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks despite treatment. They will have a cloudy or green nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. For more severe infections you might see pneumonia and a high fever. The death rate has been reported in 1 to 5% of dogs who are severely affected. Another thing that is important to remember is that unlike other flu viruses, canine influenza is not seasonal and occurs year round. Wow…..that blew me away! Year round?! Many times dogs with canine influenza are often misdiagnosed with kennel cough as the signs are usually identical. For this reason, canine influenza cannot be diagnosed only on clinical signs. That is why it is imperative to have a blood test done which identifies antibodies to the virus as early as 7 days after symptoms start. In order to confirm the infection, another blood sample should be taken about 2 weeks later. There are other tests that your veterinarian may recommend as well.
Secondary bacterial infections are common and many dogs require broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. As with all viral infections, the treatment for canine influenza is to use good preventative measures. Excellent hygiene and natural nutrition can help dogs mount an immune response and recover within 2 to 3 weeks.
If your dog starts to show signs of the canine flu, keep your dog at home, away from other dogs and dog owners. Your dog should not be brought to parks or handling and obedience classes where other dogs are present. He should not be boarded or groomed. And common sense will tell you, that he should not be brought to a dog show. In fact, they should be isolated from other dogs for 2 weeks to prevent spread of disease.
You should also take preventative measures if you have other dogs. Wash your hands frequently and change your clothes before handling or being around your other dogs to reduce the risk of spread. Always disinfect the surfaces of your home and car or van that your dog has come in contact with before you let your other dogs in these areas.
There is no cure for the flu but if you suspect your dog has come in contact with a sick dog, take him to the vet to have him tested for the flu and where he can offer treatment.
In May 2009, the USDA approved the first canine influenza vaccine. Like the human flu shot, the vaccine may not completely prevent infection but vaccinated dogs will develop less severe illness and are less likely to spread the virus to other dogs. My research says that the vaccine is not recommended for every dog—only those dogs with an "at-risk" lifestyle. This includes dogs that are boarded or kenneled frequently, go to the groomer routinely, are housed with other dogs, or have frequent dog contact (Dog Park, doggy daycare, dog shows, dog handling classes, etc). The best thing to do is ask your veterinarian if the canine flu vaccine is right for your dog.
I personally have never seen so many new illnesses as I have in recent years both in our canine friends and humans as well. Just look back at when you were growing up. Pets were lucky if they ever went to the vet in their lifetime and many lived over 16 years of age. It must be something in the water…..or food!?
My rating: dog flu shot where necessary: (4)
Friday, November 6, 2009
HYPOTHYROIDISM IN THE GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG
Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) is the absence of sufficient thyroid hormone to maintain healthy body functions. It is considered the most common endocrine disease of dogs. I dealt with this condition on a German Shepherd bitch that I owned back in the early 80’s. She was a large brood bitch who I had bought from a breeder friend because she had a great pedigree. She had a good disposition and was an easy dog to take care of because all she did was lay around the house all day. I just assumed that she was a big lazy girl. I bred her and she ended up developing mastitis (bacterial infection of the mammary glands) which was no fun treating. One of her teats was red and swollen. The poor thing was in so much pain and had hungry, greedy puppies that demanded to be fed. I had to apply warm compresses on the infected area several times a day which was extremely uncomfortable for her. Eventually we got that cleared up.
This bitch was very sluggish and it was like looking at a dog that didn’t have a care in the world. In fact, I think if the ceiling fell in on her, she would barely raise her head to notice. One day she got out of the yard and was very heavy in whelp. I looked out the front door and there was “Bandera” (tummy filled with puppies) following some people who were walking down the street. Thank God I lived in a very rural area. I used to think she was so dense. She had no spunk or energy. Then after taking her to the vets for an exam, I found out why she was the way that she was. She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Because it was so long ago, I don’t remember the name of the medicine she was put on to help her live with this condition. I knew that this was not a bitch that I wanted to have another litter from so my friend who sold her to me found a good pet home for her.
There are many different symptoms a dog that has this disease may exhibit. Sometimes they can be confusing and hard to diagnosis. Some things to look for: lethargy, lack of mental alertness, weight gain, dull coat, aggression, diarrhea, constipation, skin infections, low tolerance for the cold, hair loss, skin odor, greasy skin, reproductive problems (a bitch may have a hard time getting pregnant, etc.). It’s interesting to note that indeed, some of these signs can be contradictory…….my bitch was so mellow and easy going and really quite sweet and yet I’ve read articles about this condition where some dogs can be very problematic because of their extreme aggression! It is not unheard of that a dog may go from having a good disposition to becoming nasty and having a completely different personality than he normally exhibits. He may become fearful or shy and your once friendly dog is now the terror of the family. Before you label him as a “psycho” dog, take him in for blood work and have his thyroid checked. With proper medication, your sweet natured dog should be returned to you.
Another thing that I didn’t know even though I had a bitch with this disease is that sometimes the animal will have associate diseases because of this condition. They include: mega esophagus, ruptured knee ligaments, testicular atrophy, cardiomyopathy, excessive bleeding and corneal ulcers. Some of these conditions I never even heard of before. It’s probably a good idea to have your dog checked for these conditions if he is diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
It is not completely known if this condition is inherited. Because it is uncertain how a dog develops this condition, it’s probably a good idea not to breed the animal that is diagnosed with it. That’s why I sold my bitch into a pet home. Of the one litter that she had while she with me, one of the bitches was very much like her mother in personality……….dull! I did not keep her either for breeding although her body structure was beautiful.
The hormones produced by the thyroid govern the body’s basic metabolism which includes the control of growth, development and maintenance of protein, carbohydrates and lipid metabolism for the life of the dog. If the thyroid fails to operate correctly, then one sort of trouble or another may occur in the dog’s body.
The treatment of hypothyroidism is not complicated, but sometimes the diagnosis of the disease is because the clinical signs can mimic other diseases. Sometimes it’s just best to treat the dog who displays any of the above symptoms with hormone treatment and if it works, then you know that you are dealing with this condition. Usually the vet will do a thyroid blood test and send it to a lab that has special equipment to test for this condition. Usually the treatment consists of two daily doses of levothyroxine, the hormone identified in the test as T4. Levothyroxine is converted to triiodothyronine by the body; dogs that cannot make this conversion will need both levothyroxine and triiodothyronine.
After the dog is on this treatment for one to two months, your vet will probably want to retest him to see that his levels are in the normal range. Some dogs will be on this therapy for a longer time and should have a more complete set of tests every 6 – 12 months.
Until we know for certain what causes this type of disease, it is the wise breeder who eliminates any of these dogs from there breeding program. This is where honesty among breeders will determine the further health of the German Shepherd Dog.
My rating: treatment success for this disease: (3), using these animals in a breeding program: (1)
This bitch was very sluggish and it was like looking at a dog that didn’t have a care in the world. In fact, I think if the ceiling fell in on her, she would barely raise her head to notice. One day she got out of the yard and was very heavy in whelp. I looked out the front door and there was “Bandera” (tummy filled with puppies) following some people who were walking down the street. Thank God I lived in a very rural area. I used to think she was so dense. She had no spunk or energy. Then after taking her to the vets for an exam, I found out why she was the way that she was. She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Because it was so long ago, I don’t remember the name of the medicine she was put on to help her live with this condition. I knew that this was not a bitch that I wanted to have another litter from so my friend who sold her to me found a good pet home for her.
There are many different symptoms a dog that has this disease may exhibit. Sometimes they can be confusing and hard to diagnosis. Some things to look for: lethargy, lack of mental alertness, weight gain, dull coat, aggression, diarrhea, constipation, skin infections, low tolerance for the cold, hair loss, skin odor, greasy skin, reproductive problems (a bitch may have a hard time getting pregnant, etc.). It’s interesting to note that indeed, some of these signs can be contradictory…….my bitch was so mellow and easy going and really quite sweet and yet I’ve read articles about this condition where some dogs can be very problematic because of their extreme aggression! It is not unheard of that a dog may go from having a good disposition to becoming nasty and having a completely different personality than he normally exhibits. He may become fearful or shy and your once friendly dog is now the terror of the family. Before you label him as a “psycho” dog, take him in for blood work and have his thyroid checked. With proper medication, your sweet natured dog should be returned to you.
Another thing that I didn’t know even though I had a bitch with this disease is that sometimes the animal will have associate diseases because of this condition. They include: mega esophagus, ruptured knee ligaments, testicular atrophy, cardiomyopathy, excessive bleeding and corneal ulcers. Some of these conditions I never even heard of before. It’s probably a good idea to have your dog checked for these conditions if he is diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
It is not completely known if this condition is inherited. Because it is uncertain how a dog develops this condition, it’s probably a good idea not to breed the animal that is diagnosed with it. That’s why I sold my bitch into a pet home. Of the one litter that she had while she with me, one of the bitches was very much like her mother in personality……….dull! I did not keep her either for breeding although her body structure was beautiful.
The hormones produced by the thyroid govern the body’s basic metabolism which includes the control of growth, development and maintenance of protein, carbohydrates and lipid metabolism for the life of the dog. If the thyroid fails to operate correctly, then one sort of trouble or another may occur in the dog’s body.
The treatment of hypothyroidism is not complicated, but sometimes the diagnosis of the disease is because the clinical signs can mimic other diseases. Sometimes it’s just best to treat the dog who displays any of the above symptoms with hormone treatment and if it works, then you know that you are dealing with this condition. Usually the vet will do a thyroid blood test and send it to a lab that has special equipment to test for this condition. Usually the treatment consists of two daily doses of levothyroxine, the hormone identified in the test as T4. Levothyroxine is converted to triiodothyronine by the body; dogs that cannot make this conversion will need both levothyroxine and triiodothyronine.
After the dog is on this treatment for one to two months, your vet will probably want to retest him to see that his levels are in the normal range. Some dogs will be on this therapy for a longer time and should have a more complete set of tests every 6 – 12 months.
Until we know for certain what causes this type of disease, it is the wise breeder who eliminates any of these dogs from there breeding program. This is where honesty among breeders will determine the further health of the German Shepherd Dog.
My rating: treatment success for this disease: (3), using these animals in a breeding program: (1)
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